BYU continues to bolster its tight end room, landing a commitment from Oregon transfer Roger Saleapaga on Saturday evening. It’s a reunion of sorts-Saleapaga was a 4-star standout from Orem High School in the 2024 class, and BYU had been in the mix for him during his recruitment before he initially chose Oregon. Now, after two seasons with the Ducks, he's headed back to his home state with a chance to make an impact in Provo.
At Oregon, Saleapaga carved out a role primarily on special teams but also saw snaps at tight end across 26 games. While his receiving numbers were modest-three catches for 25 yards and a touchdown this past season-he made the most of his opportunities, including a 1-yard score in the College Football Playoff against Indiana. That kind of situational usage speaks to a player who stayed ready and contributed when called upon.
Dig a little deeper, and you’ll see that Saleapaga’s role in Eugene was more about grit than glamour. In his freshman year, 158 of his 194 total snaps came on special teams, where he registered two tackles and even recovered an onside kick. That’s the kind of hustle that doesn’t always show up in the box score but earns respect in the locker room.
Now entering his junior season, Saleapaga joins a BYU tight end group that’s already added another high-profile transfer in Walker Lyons from USC. With both players on board, BYU is positioning itself to lean into more two-tight end sets-a look that could add a new layer to the Cougars’ offensive versatility. While Lyons may project as the more dynamic receiving threat, Saleapaga brings a physical edge and blocking ability that shouldn’t be overlooked.
At Orem High, Saleapaga was a decorated pass-catching tight end, and while he found himself behind a deep group at Oregon, the change of scenery could give him the opportunity to showcase more of that skill set. Whether he emerges as a featured option or serves as a reliable complement in BYU’s scheme, he adds depth, experience, and toughness to a position group that’s quietly becoming one of the more intriguing units on the roster.
This is a homecoming with upside. Saleapaga knows the landscape, he’s got Power Five experience, and now he’s stepping into a situation where the opportunity is real. For BYU, it’s another smart addition as they continue to build a roster capable of competing in the Big 12.